A PETITION set up by M65 services managers to recognise their workplace as Darwen has been signed by 400 people in just four days.

The petition, which was placed in all three of the services complexes, has been signed by visitors from Darwen and Blackburn. Today bosses announced they were aiming to hit the 1,000-signature mark by the end of this week.

Andy Coverdale, site manager, said: "We've had people coming in just to sign the petitions and they haven't bought anything which shows the strength of feeling in Darwen. They can't stand to see the services named after Blackburn.

"We have a petition in McDonald's, Choices, and the 24-hour convenience store and they are all doing really well but we want more signatures."

With a weekly turnover of 10,000 customers, Andy wants to reach the 1,000 mark to put more pressure on the Highways Agency after Neil Jennings, director of a sign consultancy service who recommended the services be called Blackburn, changed his mind. Andy said: "We want the people of Darwen to know we are fully behind the campaign and we'll do anything to support it and change the name.

"Around 95 per cent of our staff are from Darwen and we recruit from Darwen so it's important the town gets the recognition it deserves."

Debbie Boothby, 28, from Maria Street, is a bakery supervisor in the 24-hour convenience store. She said: "It's like opening something in Blackburn and calling it Accrington. It's not right." Sarah Long, 29, from Almond Street, works as a team member in Choices restaurant.

She said: "We have people coming here and talking about it all the time. It's very important to Darwen and it's a really hot topic."

David Davis, chairman of Magram plc which runs the store and the garage forecourt, said: "At an appropriate time we will bring the petition to the attention of the necessary authorities and to Darwen MP Janet Anderson."

Councillor Paul Browne, Sudell ward, said: "It's excellent so many people have made their feelings clear on this matter. People power is very important to Darwen and if we stick together we can do great things."

Neil Jennings, director of 305 Management Services, design and development consultants, said plans to change the sign were still in the early stages.

He said: "We haven't spoken to the Highways Agency about this matter yet but we are aware that this is an issue of great public importance.

"The name was decided three years ago and there is a possibility it could be changed."